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  FANTASTIC, RED, WOOLY, ANGORA CHAPS WITH BEAUTIFULLY TOOLED LEATHER, MADE BY VISALIA STOCK SADDLE CO. OF SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, SIGNED IN 3 PLACES, ca 1880-1910
Dimensions (inches): Frame: 49" x 38"
Description:
Wooly chaps made of leather and faced with dyed Angora, made by the Visalia Stock Saddle Company of San Francisco. Founded by E.W. Weeks in 1870 and known for exceptional quality, early catalogues promote the firm as “Closely associated with the success of the Western Cattlemen” and “The Best in the West.” Early advertising claimed that “Visalia Quality is to Saddlery what Sterling is to Silver.”

Probably made between 1880 and 1910, these chaps were among the very best and most elaborate that the firm offered. Available in varying lengths of fur, the Angora facings were available in black, gold, orange, lemon, or red. The are the red version, with the present ombre coloration resulting from the passage of time. The beautifully tooled leather belt has floral designs and a nickel-plated buckle. The leggings are made of leather, lined with canvas, and studded with brass tacks along the cuffs. The chaps are signed in three places along the belt with a tooled leather stamp and a serial number is included. While the company still exists today, several fires wiped out company records and there is, unfortunately, no way to trace further history. None-the-less, this great pair of chaps is certainly a survivor with remarkable visual qualities.

Mounting: The background is hemp fabric, ivory in color. The mount was done using the belt itself and through careful employment of stainless steel pins. A deep shadowbox was constructed using substantial Italian molding with a mahogany-like woodgrain surface, very dark brown in color. To this a flat, gilded molding with a distressed surface was added as a liner. The glazing is U.V. protective plexiglass.

Condition: There is much expected wear, fading, and some dry rot, expected from age and use, the patina and presentation of which are particularly charming.
   
Primary Color: red, orange, rust, brown
Earliest Date: 1880
Latest Date: 1910
For Sale Status: Sold
Price SOLD
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